What is Land Subsidence

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Here are short notes on Land Subsidence:

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Land Subsidence

  • Meaning: Gradual settling or sudden sinking of Earth’s surface due to loss of ground support.

Causes

  • Natural:
    • Volcanic/seismic activity
    • Collapse of subsurface cavities
    • Compaction of loose deposits
  • Anthropogenic:
    • Excessive groundwater extraction
    • Mining
    • Subsurface energy extraction

Impacts

  • Damage to infrastructure (roads, pipelines, buildings)
  • Increased flood risks
  • Permanent reduction in aquifer storage
  • Disturbance in water management
  • Saltwater intrusion (due to lowered elevation)
  • Rising maintenance costs

Trends

  • Traditionally in coastal/deltaic areas.
  • Now rising in inland urban, agricultural, industrial zones with high groundwater demand.
  • Excess GW withdrawal → compaction of underground porous formations → subsidence.

Global Extent

  • 12 million sq. km land area susceptible.
  • Major affected regions: USA, China, Iran, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Egypt, Japan, Mexico, Italy.

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